Black Stars defender Kojo Oppong Peprah played a key role as OGC Nice preserved their place in the French top flight after defeating Saint-tienne in the Ligue 1 promotion/relegation playoff.After finishing 16th in the league standings, Nice were forced into a two-legged playoff against Ligue 2 outfit Saint-tienne.The first encounter ended in a goalless draw, but Nice produced an impressive display in the return leg to record a convincing 4-1 victory and secure their Ligue 1 status for another season.Peprah featured in both matches and completed the full 90 minutes in the decisive second leg. The 21-year-old defender delivered another assured performance, registering four defensive actions, three clearances and five recoveries while maintaining excellent composure in possession by completing 46 of his 48 passes.The young centre-back has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign and has established himself as one of Nices most reliable performers. His impressive form was rewarded with a place in Ghanas provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with head coach Carlos Queiroz expected to trim the squad before the tournament begins next month.On the opposing side, fellow Ghana international Augustine Boakye was involved for Saint-tienne but was unable to inspire his team to promotion. The midfielder came close to scoring, striking the woodwork with one of his three attempts on goal during the match.Meanwhile, several Ghanaian players based in France have already joined the Black Stars camp. AJ Auxerre duo Elisha Owusu and Gideon Mensah, alongside Marvin Senaya and Stade Rennes defender Alidu Seidu, are preparing with the national team for their upcoming international friendly against Wales on June 2.
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